November 29th Angel Island supporters braved the elements to celebrate Angel Island Conservancy’s (AIC) 7th annual “Angel Lights” event, held at the exquisite Mill Valley hilltop home of supporters Robert Eves and Marcine Engel. From this stunning vantage point guests celebrated the island, enjoyed live music, gourmet delicacies, libations, and the excitement of live auction offerings of one-of-a-kind adventures, available only at this event.

Emceeing the evening once again was Bay Area Backroads and OpenRoad TV personality, Doug McConnell, who was joined by professional auctioneer, Keith McLane. Together the duo offered guests the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind auction packages, like the fabulous Fourth of July overnight stay on Angel Island, including a gourmet East Indian multi-course dinner prepared by AIC Board member and internationally acclaimed designer Sudha Pennathur, fireworks, and tour by Doug McConnell. This year a few new exciting auction items were added, including a package titled an “Insider’s Visit to the Land of Giants” which included two amazing Field Club level seats to a Giants game – courtesy of the San Francisco Giants, with the high bidders arriving in style in an exotic chauffeur driven car – courtesy of San Francisco Motorsports, pre-game viewing of batting practice from down on the field, hanging out in the dugout, and schmoozing with players and coaching staff!

As in past years, the evening wouldn’t be complete without the traditional countdown to the first lighting of the “Angel Lights” on top of Mt. Livermore. The group gathered as Park Superintendent Amy Brees began the countdown and made the call to flip the “switch” bringing the lights to life. In spite of the inclement weather the night allowed for a breathtaking view of the glowing lights. Throughout the month of December, the “Angel Lights” shine from the top of Angel Island. Supporters can “adopt” an Angel Light as a thoughtful thanks to family, friends, or a mentor; as a remembrance of a loved one; to celebrate a special occasion; or as recognition of someone who has done something significant for you, in turn providing support for the work of Angel Island Conservancy.

Thanks to the of generosity our community of supporters, the event raised over $100,000, including contributions made toward the transformation of Ayala Cove, the gateway to the island, and in support of AIC’s Student Service-Learning Scholarship Program, which provides students from under-served schools with field trip grants to visit the island, giving these children firsthand learning experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.

Throughout the month of December, the “Angel Lights” shine from the top of Angel Island. Those lights may be “adopted” providing support for the work of Angel Island Conservancy.

Please consider adopting a light. A commemorative certificate will be sent on your behalf as a thoughtful thanks to family, friends, or a mentor; as a remembrance of a loved one; to celebrate a special occasion; or as recognition of someone who has done something significant for you.